Industrial-Organizational Psychology - Admission and Application

Admission Criteria

The admission committee considers many variables. The entire set of credentials presented by the applicant is considered. However, a low standing on one criterion [e.g., grade point average (GPA), Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) score] does not automatically mean rejection, nor does one very high standing on one criterion mean automatic acceptance. Students with diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

The applicant must possess a bachelor's or master's degree or their equivalent from a regionally accredited institution. The prior academic record must indicate ability and preparation necessary for pursuing graduate studies.

The minimum prerequisite for the program is 18 semester hours of undergraduate courses in psychology. These must include courses in general psychology, introductory statistics, research methods, mental measurements, and six semester hours in other upper-division, undergraduate courses.

Grade Point Average (GPA) -- A minimum 3.0 required in undergraduate and/or graduate. Overall GPA in a degree program and GPA in the psychology courses are both assessed. Special note is made of honors courses or programs.

The General Test portion is required for all applicants. The Psychology Subject Area test is required for applicants who do no have an undergraduate degree in psychology; it is recommended for applicants who have a psychology major.

Research experience. This may reflect anything from collecting data to publication in refereed journals.

Work experience. Of special interest is work relevant to psychology.

Letters of reference. Letters from academic/research sources receive greatest weight, although those describing other types of experience are also considered.

Compatible interests. Compatibility of the applicant's interests with those of the faculty is considered.

Writing skills. The applicant's ability to write, as reflected in the Statement of Purpose, as well as in technical writing shown in published research, is also taken into account.

Admission Process

Please be advised that the deadline for applications is Feb. 1.

Requests for application forms are made to the director academic programs school of psychology, at Xavier University. Applicants from foreign countries or who completed their degree overseas are required to submit transcripts evaluated by World Educational Service, a financial statement, a sponsorship letter, and official TOEFL scores. All applicants should see that the school of psychology receives the following items:

Any other information that might aid in the selection process (for example, relevant work experience).

Financial Aid

A limited number of graduate research, lab/teaching, and assistantships are available. The program will award a one year graduate scholarship to an eligible Alpha Sigma Nu student. Applicants are encouraged to apply for graduate assistantships outside the department. For mor information on these assistantships, contact the Graduate Services office at 523-745-3360 or email xugrad@xavier.edu.